🌙 Night Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park

Night game drives in Murchison Falls National Park cost $20 per person above the standard park entry fee and run from 18:30 to approximately 21:30. UWA permits night driving only on the north bank road system with a certified night guide. The additional fee is paid at the gate or through your lodge. Night drives provide access to a different set of species from those encountered during daylight — nocturnal carnivores, small mammals, and owls that are entirely absent from daytime sightings.

Leopards are the primary target on night drives at Murchison. While leopard sightings during daytime drives are infrequent, the cats become much more active after dark, particularly in the first hour of darkness. The lions that were resting during the afternoon heat become active hunters between 19:00 and 23:00. Spotted hyena, rarely seen in daylight, emerge from their dens and begin foraging across the savanna.

What You Are Likely to See

Leopards are seen on a minority of night drives but when encountered they are typically at close range and relaxed in the spotlight. Lions begin hunting activity after dark and chases or kills are occasionally witnessed. Spotted hyena travel in loose groups between 19:00 and midnight. Side-striped jackal and bat-eared foxes are common road-crossers. African wild cat, larger than a domestic cat, is regularly spotted in short grass near water. Porcupine and spring hare are very common along road edges. Genets — small spotted carnivores — hunt in low vegetation and trees. Nightjars sit on the road surface and reflect light from the vehicle spotlight brightly before flying off. White-tailed and common scops owl are frequently encountered perched on low branches.

The Spotlight System

Night drives use a handheld spotlight operated by the guide from the vehicle roof or bonnet. The guide sweeps the beam across the savanna, looking for eye-shine — the reflection of light from animal eyes. Different species produce different eye-shine colours and heights above the ground, which an experienced guide uses to identify the animal before it is fully visible. Cats produce a bright orange eye-shine at height; smaller mammals produce green or red near the ground. Photography at night requires a camera capable of ISO 3200 or above and fast lenses (f/2.8 or wider). Flash is generally not used as it disturbs the animals and destroys the atmosphere.

Combining Night and Morning Drives

A productive strategy at Murchison is the night drive followed by an early morning game drive the following day. Night drives often locate animals in areas where they can be tracked at first light the next morning. This is particularly effective for finding lions after a kill, when they may remain at the carcass into the following morning. Most north bank lodges offer combined packages. Guests booking both activities receive guidance from the same driver-guide who can carry knowledge of sightings between sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a night drive safe?

Night drives with a UWA certified guide in a closed or pop-top vehicle are safe. Visitors remain in the vehicle at all times. The guide is armed in accordance with UWA regulations.

Can children participate?

UWA does not specify a minimum age for night drives. Children who can remain quiet in the vehicle will have an enjoyable experience. Very young children who may call out or move unpredictably are better left at the lodge.

What should I wear?

Temperatures drop significantly after sunset on the north bank. Long trousers and a fleece or light jacket are recommended. The vehicle cabin provides wind protection but the open sides allow cool air during driving.